Nominations officially open for Kraft Hockeyville 2023

Nominations are officially open for Kraft Hockeyville 2023 with local hockey communities given the chance to win up to $250,000.

The National Hockey League (NHL) works in partnership with Kraft Heinz as well as the National Hockey League Players’ Association (NHLPA) to bring the passion and pride of hockey to a younger generation.

Former NHL defenseman P.K. Subban joined Kraft Hockeyville this year to support the program and share stories of his career.

“I had a passion for the game from the moment my mom & dad first put a stick in my hand, and that passion grew every time I laced up my skates at my local arena,” P.K. Subban said. “It’s that ability to fuel the passion of players and fans that shows the huge impact the game has at the community level.”

Communities from coast-to-coast compete for the chance to host an official, preseason NHL game and receive $250,000 in arena upgrades.

Proud hockey cities and towns are encouraged to share their unique stories during the program’s nomination period, highlighting their connection to the game and local arenas.

This year’s winner as well as three-runner-up communities will also receive $10,000 in brand new hockey equipment.

Courtesy of the NHLPA Goals and Dreams fund, the equipment is intended to help make the game of hockey accessible to more children.

Kraft Hockeyville has awarded $4.5 million to 93 communities across the country since the launch of the program 17 years ago.

“We know that hockey brings communities together,” Kraft Heinz Canada President, Adam Butler said. “Our commitment to support the sport at a local level by championing participation helps make the game better for all.”

Last year’s winner Sydney, Nova Scotia set an example through their determination to accommodate a sharp increase in girls’ participation in hockey.

The community empowers girls with the access to the necessary ice-time they need to grow their love of the game.

Nominations for Kraft Hockeyville 2023 will close on Feb. 19 at 11:59 p.m. For more information, visit their website.